Jenny Clarke, President of the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve has come a long way with APAA over the three-decades of its existence. “We now try and help all the other associations and charities, apart from our own community work. Cat-colonies, abandoned animals, it’s all in a day’s work.” Really.

“Time is spent trapping, transporting feral cats to-and-from the colonies to vets and back again.” Endless loop. “The colonies are huge, some of them have to be split into two or even more. Outsiders arrive. We know who they are. Tips of ears are still in-tact!” Jenny laughs. “It’s time consuming but rewarding.”

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The sadness is with the abandonees. “We do try, and it’s sometimes heart breaking when we’re asked to help but the outcome is not always as desired. If, we had an animal-loving world, none of us would be necessary. Hurting animals literally for ‘kicks’, starving them, allowing them to be permanently in a pregnant state, the kittens or pups becoming more deformed with each birthing.” A tragedy indeed.

The cost in time, emotion and money notwithstanding is something all active members are only too aware of. “They give time, and donations and sometimes spare rooms to animals at a moment’s notice.” There are many associations and charities dealing with such problems on a daily, hourly basis. They all need help or some kind or another. “Even the largest of them still need help, they are bursting at the seams. Not only helping their community but other shelters who are over-burdened.” Re-homing animals is a priority.

“But shamefully not always possible. Some animals are so terrified and criminally damaged never to fully recover, either emotionally or physically. Their spirits crushed.” If, during this coming year, a new bright one ahead, ‘hope’ is the word. “Perhaps, you could help give a few minutes of your day, or, a small cash donation at a ‘Pop-Up’ Shop, attend an event, it all helps. We know only too well that animals cost but we do help those who need help.” After all APAA’s motto is ‘Here to Help’. Happy New Year!

Visit APAA Charity shops Dunas do Alvor: Mon-Sat10.30am–2pm Rua Elias Garcia 20,Silves:Mon-Fri 10am–2pm(Sat1pm) Silves. Real bargains. Books, gifts. Hand-made jewellery, ornaments. Home-made chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies. Glassware, dinner services, cutlery. Everything you need for your home or rental. Spoil yourself! All proceeds raised for SNiP and Abandoned animals. Bring unwanted presents. Browse and buy!

Contacts & Jackie’s lunches: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com (mark for Anita-Legacy) Legacy video : https://youtu.be/hNCdd5X-4XI *

Always Check out APAA’s Facebook!